Decision

For the reasons set out in this report, the Corporate Director has decided to:

1)    Award a contract for empty building security services to Orbis Protect Limited for a period of two years with an option to extend for a further 12 months if required.  The estimated total contract sum is £295,000 excl. VAT.

Alternative options considered

“Do Nothing” – This option would result in the Council having no contracted provider to secure and maintain the void properties and land assets. The Council would be exposed to significant operational, financial, and health and safety risks, including increased incidents of vandalism, arson, squatting, fly?tipping, and insurance claims. This option is not viable and would place the Council in breach of its duty of care and asset management responsibilities.

Bring the service in house – This is not an option at present due to the number of void properties and land sites the Council’s Housing team are managing.  The services the Council can offer internally are limited compared to those offered by the current security contractor.  The void properties are fitted with monitored alarms that require a 24/7, 365 days a year response in the event of an activation.  Given that voids are located in highly populated areas, the Council must ensure that properties are secured immediately to mitigate risks to both the Council and the general public.  In addition, while a disposal route is agreed for each site, there will be an ongoing requirement for properties to be opened, accessed and viewed by developers and partner organisations. The Housing Team does not have the operational capacity or resources to manage or supervise these activities.